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Family Law Issues Surrounding Same-Sex Marriage Legalization

Posted By Stephanie Squires || 21-Jul-2015

When the United States Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriages nationwide
on June 26th, 2015, the first thing everyone saw was the controversy surrounding the
issue. An estimated 60% of Americans were in favor of the ruling, and
some of them took to the streets waving rainbow-colored flags, signs,
and banners in celebration. The other 40% were less enthusiastic, prompting
some politicians not in favor of the decision to vow to do all they can
to have it repealed or delayed.

Other than the split between the American people, an important aspect that
few people are acknowledging is how family law could require an overhaul.

What Issues Need to Be Addressed?

Most of what could change stems from the fact that same-sex couples are
now free to file for divorce in any state they live in. It is actually
a blessing in disguise for many same-sex married couples who felt as if
they were previously trapped in a marriage they would like to end, all
because of where they lived.

Many divorces will involve matters surrounding child custody, alimony payments,
and even fathers’ or mothers’ rights. With same-sex couples,
some of these regulations, which traditionally held some bias for one
gender or another, seem to be outdated or inefficient. Lawmakers must
now take a second look at family law as a whole and figure out what needs
to change in response to the Supreme Court’s recent ruling.

I, Rhode Island Family Law Attorney Patricia Sullivan, have taken particular
interest in how this ruling might change divorce litigation. If you live
in Rhode Island and have any questions about your newfound rights as a
spouse in a same-sex relationship and you are contemplating a divorce
please call today to schedule your free initial consultation at The Law
Office of Patricia A. Sullivan.